Clifton was a healthy scratch for Game 1 but will replace Jeremy Lauzon (undisclosed) for Game 2. Clifton had seven points (1G / 6A), 108 hits and 52 blocked shots in 44 regular-season games in 2021.
Girard has missed the last six games but will play Wednesday vs. the Kings. it's unclear who Girard will replace but it gives him the opportunity to get back up to game speed with the playoffs just around the corner.
Graves missed Saturday's game vs. the Sharks but will return tonight in San Jose. Graves will most likely replace Kyle Burroughs in the lineup.
Malkin has missed the last 23 games with a lower-body injury but will play Monday vs. the Flyers. Malkin will be back on the second line with Jason Zucker and Kasperi Kapanen and will replace Jared McCann on PP1. Malkin has scored eight goals with 16 assists in 29 games this year.
Malkin has been out since March 16th but will be a game-time decision on Saturday. Malkin has been skating recently but its unclear where he will slot in in his return to the lineup. Malkin, who was red-hot before he got hurt, comes into Saturday with 24 points (8G / 16A) in 29 games.
Bemstrom has been out since March 14th but will return to the lineup Saturday in Carolina. Bemstrom will replace Patrik Laine, who is out with a non-COVID-19 related illness. Bemstrom has just two assists in 15 games this season.
Colorado head coach Jared Bednar did not have an update on Girard's status postgame, so it's unclear what his status is heading into Saturday. With Ryan Graves also getting hurt in the game, the Avalanche may have to turn to an emergency recall to serve as their No.6 defenseman on Saturday.
The Avalanche did not provide an update on Graves' condition postgame, so it's unclear whether or not he will be available for Saturday's rematch. If not, look for Jacob MacDonald to draw back into the lineup and for Patrik Nemeth to move up and skate with Cale Makar.
Lizotte missed Thursday's practice and is not expected to be available for Friday's game in Anaheim. With Lizotte not expected to play, look for Jaret Anderson-Dolan to draw back in.
Hayes has not scored in his last 15 games, posting just three assists over that span. Carsen Twarysnki will draw in to replace the centre.
Acciari has missed six of the last seven games but will draw back into the lineup tonight in Chicago. It's unclear who Acciari will replace, but he'll likely play on the fourth line.
Clifton has been a healthy scratch for the last two games but will replace Steven Kampfer in the lineup on Tuesday. Clifton has picked one goal and six assists (seven points) in 38 games this season.
